Still, Maran – a wife, mother and grandmother – takes most pride in the lives she has touched since her debut season in 1978.

"Coaching is my focus; all the other stuff is just a byproduct," she said.

Q.Could you have ever imagined being at OCC for 36 years?

A. When I started here I was in my 20s, and I looked at coaches from other schools and thought, 'What are these people doing at the same school for 17, 18 years? How can they want to stay in one place?' Well, time flies, and I started thinking, 'Why would I want to go anywhere else?' This is the greatest place. There are some real good people here.

Q.What was the best part of coaching in one place for so long?

A. There are a variety of students, and I have learned something every year from somebody different. Whether it's patience or creativity, you learn how to keep people on their game. Everybody is a little different so you learn a variety of skills to deal with these kids. ... I guess you just go out there and do what you do, and I was meant to coach.

Q.How has the sport changed since you began your tenure?

A. Technology. The ball is hit so much harder with the technology kids are using now, and that has changed the style of play. You don't have to be big and strong anymore. When I was playing, tennis was more of a serve and volley game. You don't get that much anymore. It's more backcourt play.

Q.So, what's next?

A. I have a new grandson, and I have a grandchild on the way who is due in October. The idea that I won't have to go to work every single day, be full time, and can open up time during the week to be with a new little one and my recent little one, makes me smile. I'm really looking forward to having more open time with my family.

Q.What will you miss most from your time at OCC?

A. The conference I was in. I love all the coaches. They're really, really good people. They were so sweet, and got me gifts and cards and notes when they heard I was retiring. It makes you want to puddle up a bit. I'm still excited for the future though, because I really don't know what it's going to bring. Who knows? Maybe 10 years down the road, I'll want to coach again.

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